Apple Issues New Version Of iOS 9.3.2, Which Fixes The Awful 'Error 56' Bug

Apple released iOS 9.3.2 a couple of weeks ago, which fixed several bugs found in previous versions of iOS -- but it also inadvertently caused a major 9.7-inch iPad Pro disruption. Many 9.7-inch iPad Pro users reported that the software update "bricked" their devices. The iOS 9.3.2 bug affecting 9.7-inch iPad Pro users became known as “Error 56” because of the error message that was displayed following the software update. Users were asked to connect their "bricked" devices to iTunes only to be told that it “could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (56).” Some users were able to exchange their "bricked" 9.7-inch iPad Pros at Apple’s retail stores for new ones, but others were not as lucky. Fortunately, Apple has released a new version of iOS 9.3.2 today that wipes out the "Error 56" bug affecting 9.7-inch iPad Pro users.

The rollout of iOS 9.3 and its iterations have not been very smooth. For example, Apple also had to pull the original version of iOS 9.3 and release a new version because it was causing activation issues for older iPad users who needed to reset their Apple ID passwords. Apple’s support page simply identifies “Error 56” as a “hardware issue,” but it does not have any suggestions to circumvent the problem.

Before releasing the original version of iOS 9.3.2, Apple spent several weeks beta testing the software update. The original version of iOS 9.3.2 fixed a bug causing iPhone SE users to experience audio problems while making phone calls over Bluetooth through wireless headsets and vehicle infotainment systems. Another beneficial feature added in the iOS 9.3.2 update is the ability to use Low Power Mode and Night Shift at the same time.

The new version of iOS 9.3.2 is called build number 13F72 and it can be found by connecting your 9.7-inch iPad Pro to iTunes or downloading it over-the-air under Settings > General > Software Update. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro was reportedly not affected by the “Error 56” bug, nor has it caused similar problems for iPhones, iPods and other types of iPads. Apple is already testing iOS 9.3.3 Public Beta 1, meaning that iOS 9.3.3 will likely be rolled out to the public within the next month. iOS 9.3.3 Public Beta 1 was not available for 9.7-inch iPad Pro users because of the iOS 9.3.2 bug. Most likely, Apple will allow 9.7-inch iPad Pro users to download the second developer and public betas of iOS 9.3.3 once it is released since the “Error 56” bug has been resolved.

Were you affected by the "Error 56" bug? Have you updated to the new version of iOS 9.3.2? Please leave a comment about your experiences!

I have written over 20,000 articles about startups, gadgets and large technology companies over the last ten years. My Forbes column focuses on the tech economy, startups and gadgets. When I am not writing for Forbes, I spend time hanging out with my wife around metro Detroi...